There’s a little tube in your head behind your ear that can cause serious issues if things go wrong. It’s called the eustachian tube and even if you haven’t heard of it before, you’ve almost certainly felt its effects in some way.
What is the Eustachian Tube?
The eustachian tube is a small passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. This tube plays a crucial role in maintaining equal pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment, allowing us to hear sounds clearly.
What happens when it gets blocked?
A blockage in the eustachian tube can cause various issues, including pain, hearing difficulties and tinnitus (ringing in the ear). The blockage can occur due to various reasons, such as a cold, sinus infection, or allergies. In some cases, structural abnormalities of the tube itself can lead to blockages.
When the tube becomes blocked, it creates a vacuum in the middle ear, leading to a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear.
The vacuum in the middle ear also prevents the normal movement of the eardrum, affecting its ability to vibrate and transmit sound. This can cause temporary hearing loss, making it difficult to hear sounds around you.
It can also be quite painful – if you’ve ever taken off in a plane and can’t “pop” your ears, you’ll already know the feeling.
Worst case scenario?
In severe cases, a blockage in the Eustachian tube can lead to an ear infection. The blockage can prevent air from entering the middle ear, creating an environment that is ideal for bacteria and viruses to grow. This can lead to inflammation and infection, causing severe pain and discomfort.
A blocked Eustachian tube can also cause tinnitus, a ringing or other noise in the ear that is not caused by an external source.
How to treat a blocked eustachian tube
Treatment for a blocked Eustachian tube depends on the cause of the blockage. If the blockage is due to a cold or sinus infection, it usually resolves on its own within a few days. In some cases, over-the-counter decongestants can help to unblock the tube and relieve pressure in the middle ear.
In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or decongestants to treat an ear infection or allergy-related blockage. In some cases, a procedure called a myringotomy may be necessary to relieve pressure in the middle ear. This involves making a small incision in the eardrum to allow air to enter the middle ear.
The Eustachian tube is an important passage that plays a crucial role in maintaining equal pressure in the middle ear and allowing us to hear sounds clearly. If you experience symptoms of a blocked Eustachian tube, it is important to see a professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment. By taking care of your Eustachian tube and seeking treatment when necessary, you can ensure that your hearing and overall health are protected.
If you feel you need your ears checked, then please don’t hesitate to contact us today and we’ll have a look to try and figure out what’s going on.
